Classical Christian Education

Overview

Community Christian School believes that the most effective way to create both an academically rigorous and Christ-centered school is through the proven model of the classical Christian approach to education. Classical Christian education is an established approach to teaching that uses an integrated biblical worldview curriculum to develop critical thinking skills through a rich exposure to history, literature, classical language, math, science, and the arts. The classical Christian method emphasizes the basics of both modern and traditional education including mathematics, history, the sciences, language studies, and classic literature with a concentration on the great works of Western Civilization, an emphasis on the integration of knowledge, and a belief that all subjects present an opportunity to understand more of the nature and character of God.

The Trivium

The Classical method of study is organized according to the “Trivium,” the three-phase approach to education that capitalizes on the unique developmental characteristics of students as they mature. These three distinct areas of study are the Grammar Stage in Kindergarten through 6th grade, the Logic Stage in 7th through 9th grade, and the Rhetoric Stage in 10th through 12th grade. Each of these stages is critical to building the skill of understanding language, the skill of sound reasoning, and the skill of persuasive communication. Essentially, the classical Christian approach enables students to become thinkers and learners.

The Grammar Stage

The Grammar Stage (K-6th grade) emphasizes the acquisition of basic facts in each subject. Young students enjoy absorbing information through songs, recitation, repetitious activities, and educational games.

Children tend to be fascinated by the human tongue

Focus on language

Factual information, vocabulary, grammar

Learn pieces of information

Memorization: drills, songs, repetition

A focus on clarity, narrative, and description in writing

The Logic Stage

The Logic Stage (grades 7-9) focuses on organizing facts learned in the Grammar Stage while helping students address the question, “Why?” A formal study of logic gives focus to the naturally argumentative nature of students in this stage. Other tools of learning include debates, as well as research and persuasive writing projects.

“Philosophers”

Students are ready to challenge every assumption

Focus on logic

Learn how to argue well/reason with clarity

Study the relationship between the pieces

Debate, discuss, and reason

Writing: compare/contrast, praise/blame, argumentative

The Rhetoric Stage

The Rhetoric Stage (grades 10-12) refines the students’ ability to persuasively express the grammar and logic of a subject through written and oral presentations, as well as debate.

“Poets”

Students yearn to express themselves with passion

Focus on the art of communicating

Winning people over with words

Learn to communicate ideas clearly with persuasion and beauty by studying and imitating styles of the masters

Frequently practice writing essays and giving speeches in several subjects of study